World Champion Gukesh Begins Tata Steel Masters Amid Strong Competition and Mixed Form

World Chess Champion D Gukesh aims to regain form at the Tata Steel Masters tournament, starting with a first-round match against World Cup winner Javokhir Sindarov. Gukesh, who won the 2024 title by defeating Ding Liren, had mixed results in 2025, including notable wins and early exits. Fellow Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa has qualified for the upcoming Candidates Tournament. Experts like Daniil Dubov have defended Gukesh's championship legitimacy amid some criticism. The Tata Steel Masters features a strong field, including top Indian players Arjun Erigaisi and Aravindh Chithambaram.